Login to Access Video or Poster Abstract: MP26-15
Sources of Funding: None

Introduction

Low inter-rater's agreement has made uroflowmetry, one of the most important diagnostic tools, more art than science. We presented a novel grade and pattern system to interpret uroflowmetry scientifically.

Methods

Totally 1240 uroflowmetry curves from healthy children and 300 curves from pediatric patients with LUTS were reviewed by two independent experts in urodynamics. Then this model was used to teach 6 young urologists and revised according to their responses. Finally, 6 objective parameters are used to assign grade and pattern of each uroflowmetry curve: bladder volume (BV), main curve percentage (MCP), number of deep drops, Qmax, rising angle (the angle between Qmax and time to Qmax), and flow index (Qmax/ &[root]bladder volume).

Results

Table summarizes the definitions of grade 1 and 3 curves. Grade 1 curves are regarded as normal and imply no bladder outlet obstruction, Grade 2 curves are equivocal, and Grade 3 curves are highly suggestive of lower urinary tract dysfunction. Grade 2 curves are those not fit for grade 1 or 3. Grade 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 2 and 3 curves were noted in 305 (24.6%), 24 (1.9%), 816 (65.8%), 65 (5.2%) and 30 (2.4%), respectively. Grade 3 plateau or staccato curves were not observed.

Conclusions

Based on 6 objective parameters a novel grade and pattern of uroflowmetry is developed to interpret it scientifically and to increase inter-rater's agreement in the future.

Funding

None